In a rental kitchen without a built-in space, start by choosing a freestanding dishwasher to suit the available space and existing connections. A 60 cm model offers greater capacity if there’s room for it, while a 45 cm model takes up less floor space. If neither will fit, a countertop model could work for a smaller amount of washing up, provided you can connect it and have a stable place for it. Before making any changes to the property’s fixtures, discuss your plans with your landlord in writing.
You want to avoid a built-in installation. Check that the space, water supply, drainage and electrical supply are suitable for your chosen model. Discuss any work that would alter the property’s fixtures with your landlord.
If you have a permanent spot on the floor, compare 60 cm freestanding models. The Electrolux ESA47300SX, for example, is listed as holding 13 place settings. You’ll still need to check its dimensions against the space in your kitchen.
If floor space is limited, start by looking at a 45 cm freestanding model. If no floor-standing appliance will fit, a countertop model may be an option once you’ve checked its capacity, the worktop space available and its connections.
First, make sure the appliance can be installed in your home, then weigh up capacity against the space it takes up. Whatever the size, allow room to open the door too.
| What matters | What to check | Who this suits |
|---|---|---|
| Connections and installation work | Check the water supply, drainage, socket and the requirements in the manual. Discuss any planned changes with your landlord in writing. | When I need to rely on the existing connections, I want to know whether the appliance can be installed without altering the property. This comes first for around 36 % of consumers. |
| Everyday capacity | Compare the place settings and overall dimensions of the 60 cm model with the space available. | For a household’s everyday washing up, I prioritise capacity if a standard-size appliance still leaves enough room to move around. Around 29 % of consumers prioritise this. |
| Floor width | For a 45 cm model, also measure the depth, height and clearance needed for the door. | If the space between units is narrow, my main priority is keeping the walkway clear. Around 21 % of consumers share this priority. |
| Worktop space | Check that you have a stable surface, and confirm the capacity and connections required by the countertop model. | If there’s no usable floor space, I’m happy to accept a smaller capacity to fit the appliance on the worktop. This is the main priority for around 14 % of consumers. |
Not needing a built-in space doesn’t guarantee that your connections are suitable. Electrolux’s pre-installation guide states that connections must meet the applicable requirements.
Compare your existing set-up with the model’s manual. If you need to alter any fixtures in the property, agree the work with your landlord in writing before arranging it.
An installation service doesn’t cover any plumbing, electrical or carpentry work that may be needed.
A slim appliance can still be quite deep: Candy lists the CF0C7SB0FW as 448 mm wide and 605 mm deep. The open door may also block the walkway.
Measure the width, height, depth and door clearance, then compare these measurements with the installation diagram for the exact model.
Candy specifies a direct connection to the water supply for the CP 6E51LS. So you can’t tell how a countertop model connects just from its size.
Check the water supply and drainage instructions for your chosen model before making space for it near the sink.
Two appliances that fit in the same space can have different running costs and features. ADEME says the energy label helps you compare energy, water and noise levels.
Once you’ve checked the installation requirements, compare the labels and capacities of the specific models you’re considering.
An option for a standard 60 cm freestanding space.
60 cm freestanding models to consider when capacity matters and you have a standard-sized space.
A 45 cm freestanding range to consider if width is your main constraint.
Slim freestanding and countertop models for two different space requirements.
These freestanding models are worth considering if you’re looking for greater capacity and have a suitable space on the floor. Check their dimensions and installation instructions before choosing. A removable top or the words “freestanding” won’t, on their own, resolve any questions about connections.
Image unavailableWorth considering if you have floor space for an appliance listed as holding 14 place settings. The title lists a width of 60 cm and an E energy rating. Check the full dimensions, door clearance and connections in the manual.
Image unavailableFor a floor space where the listed capacity of 14 place settings would be useful. The title specifies a width of 60 cm, a noise level of 41 dB and a C energy rating. Check the depth, door clearance and required connections before choosing this model.
Image unavailableConsider this model if a listed capacity of 14 place settings suits your needs and you have a suitable space on the floor. The title mentions 7 programmes. Check the manual to confirm clearances, connections and installation requirements for a kitchen without a built-in space.
Image unavailableDesigned for a space on the floor and listed as holding 14 place settings, this model is described as a 60 cm appliance with a C energy rating. The dimensions listed for this model don’t match that width. Ask the retailer to confirm its overall dimensions, then check the manual and connections before deciding.
Image unavailableWorth considering if you’re looking for a floor-standing appliance listed as holding 14 place settings and described as a 60 cm model with a C energy rating. The dimensions listed for this model don’t match that width. Confirm its exact overall dimensions before measuring your space, then check the connections in the manual.
Don’t treat plumbing or electrical alterations as a routine part of installation. Explain the planned work to your landlord and get written permission before changing any fixtures in the property. Also check the technical requirements in the manual.
Measure the space and the clearance needed to open the door, then check the water supply, drainage and electrical supply against the model’s manual. Electrolux’s pre-installation guide states that connections must meet the applicable requirements.
Don’t assume it can: Candy lists the CP 6E51LS as connecting directly to the water supply. Check the water supply and drainage requirements for your chosen model, and make sure there’s room for it near the connections.
Compare the energy labels and capacities of the specific models rather than judging their energy use by width alone. ADEME says the label helps you compare energy, water and noise levels.
If a 60 cm model leaves enough room for the appliance, its door and a clear walkway, compare its capacity with your needs. Otherwise, measure a space for a 45 cm model, taking its depth into account too. For the specific models mentioned here, Electrolux lists 13 place settings for the 598 mm-wide ESA47300SX, while Candy lists 10 place settings for the 448 mm-wide CF0C7SB0FW.